The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel

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Key details

About the Castle Hotel

Front Street, Embleton (Northumberland), United Kingdom, NE66 3UN

The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel, Embleton - Coastal Charm with a Touch of the Cosmos

Set in the picturesque village of Embleton, a designated area of outstanding natural beauty on the Northumberland coast, The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel offers a serene escape. Its location provides direct access to miles of unspoiled white sandy beaches and the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle, making it an ideal base for those seeking both relaxation and exploration in a truly magical, untouched corner of North England. The hotel's proximity to the dark skies of Northumberland, renowned as the best in England for stargazing, adds a unique celestial dimension to the coastal allure.

Location

The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel is perfectly situated for embracing the rugged beauty of the Northumberland coastline. Guests can embark on scenic walks directly from the hotel, stretching north along the beach to the Ship Inn at Newton-by-the-Sea, or south towards the iconic Dunstanburgh Castle and the busy pub, The Jolly Fisherman, in Craster harbour. The hotel is approximately 70 km from Newcastle, providing a sense of remoteness while still being reasonably accessible. Nearby landmarks include Embleton Tower (0.3 km) and Preston Tower (0.3 km), with Embleton Bay (2.5 km) and Low Newton-by-the-Sea (2 km) a short journey away. The region is a haven for nature lovers, with numerous reserves like Beadnell Bay and Budle Bay offering opportunities to witness rare flora and fauna, including bee orchids and various bird species.

Style and Character

The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel presents a characterful, unpretentious charm, rooted in its coastal village setting. While specific design details are minimal, the atmosphere leans towards comfort and functionality, serving as a practical gateway to the surrounding natural wonders. The Old Police House, for instance, features generously proportioned double bedrooms that feel light and airy, suggesting a focus on bright, welcoming spaces. The hotel's collective name, along with its association with the Rose Cottages (The Hayloft, Old Barn & the Stable) in a bright courtyard, hints at a property that values its connection to the local landscape and its history, rather than aiming for ostentatious luxury.

Service and Facilities

While details on specific hotel facilities are sparse, the emphasis appears to be on providing a comfortable and hospitable base. Guests can expect a friendly atmosphere, with mentions of local chatter and homemade dishes served alongside local drinks. The presence of a garden and outdoor seating suggests opportunities for al fresco enjoyment, particularly during milder months. For those interested in astronomical pursuits, the hotel's location offers access to the Northumberland International Dark Sky Park and its observatory, complete with astronomers and guest speakers, providing a unique educational and engaging experience.

Rooms

Accommodation at The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel caters to a variety of needs, offering single, twin, and double rooms. Several rooms are designed with extra space, accommodating a sofa bed to comfortably house children, making them suitable for families. Specifically, the large village view rooms feature a sofa bed, ideal for younger guests. Basic amenities include heating, a TV, an electric kettle, complimentary toiletries, and ironing facilities, with carpeted floors adding to the comfort. The private bathrooms typically come with a shower and hairdryer, though some twin/double rooms also feature a bath.

Food and Drink

The hotel offers a satisfying culinary experience, focusing on comfort food and local flavours. Guests can enjoy a full menu featuring popular choices such as lasagne, burgers, and fish and chips, served in the bar, lounge, or outdoor seating areas. A highlight is the homemade Sunday lunch, complete with a choice of roast meats, homemade Yorkshire puddings, and beautifully cooked vegetables. Options like avocado on sourdough, fruit smoothies, and local kippers are also available, complemented by a selection of local ales and the promise of friendly service and local conversation.

Value for Money

The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel appears to offer good value, particularly for those prioritizing location and access to natural beauty over extravagant amenities. The comfortable, practical accommodation, coupled with hearty, homemade food and its direct access to stunning coastal walks and stargazing opportunities, makes it an appealing choice for a restorative break. Its position as a gateway to exploring Northumberland's treasures, such as Alnwick Castle, Bamburgh, and Hadrian's Wall, further enhances its appeal for independent travelers and families looking for an authentic experience.

Accessibility

Specific details regarding accessibility features for guests with disabilities are not extensively provided. However, the hotel's inclusion of rooms with sofa beds suggests a degree of flexibility in accommodating different guest needs. Further inquiries regarding specific requirements would be advisable.

Family-Friendly

The Dunstanburgh Castle Hotel is a practical choice for families. The availability of rooms with extra space and sofa beds is particularly beneficial for accommodating children. The hotel's location, offering direct access to beaches and walking routes, provides ample opportunities for outdoor family activities. Furthermore, the nearby attractions, from the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle to nature reserves teeming with wildlife, ensure plenty to engage younger visitors.